The most distinctive feature of all Azumi flutes is the Altus Z-Cut professional headjoint, which responds quickly and easily and produces a full and rich tone in all three registers.

Originally reserved for professional models, all Azumi Flutes feature pointed key arms for an elegant and refined look, even pad wear, and improved key strength.

Based on the work and recommendations of British flutist William Bennett, the Altus-Bennett scale offers excellent intonation, carefully tuned harmonics, and balanced registers.

An open-hole flute has holes at the center of the A, G, F, E, and D keys. Open holes are the standard among intermediate flutes and are the preference of the majority of professional flutists.

The flute’s footjoint can be built to low C or B. The B foot reaches down to a low B, one half-step lower than the C footjoint. It has one more key and the length of the tube is extended by about one inch.

The C# trill key is a lever activated by the first finger of the right hand to open a tone hole next to the thumb key. It simplifies many awkward trill and tremolo fingerings and has become a preferred feature among professional flutists.

The G keys of a flute can be made inline or offset. There is no difference in the tone produced with inline or offset G keys, it is simply a matter of comfort and preference.

The Split E mechanism is designed to make the high E more responsive. This mechanism physically splits the double G keys. When playing G, the keys behave as normal, closing both of the G keys.